Scotland day 4, Isle of Sky and Eilean Donan Castle

This morning we visited Neptune Staircase, a set of 8 locks connecting the lochs. This canal has a series of 29 locks in total.

Continuing on to the Glenfinnan Monument set amidst superb Highland scenery. The monument is a tribute to the Jacobite clansmen who fought alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745. A short hike took us to an incredible view point to take in the magnificent scenery and the rail bridge made from the Harry Potter movies. The famous Jacobite steam train crosses this bridge.

Contining our drive through the Highlands we took a detour and enjoyed a scenic seaside route to the white sands of the Atlantic ocean. Of course the ladies just had to dip their feet in the ocean.

Our next stop was the charming town of Mallaig for a stroll through town followed by a delicious lunch at the West Highland Hotel. Theirs a magnificent harbour view from the restaurant.

On to the ferry for a 45 minute ride to Armadale on the beautiful Isle of Sky. The view of the west coast is stunning from the water, a camera does not do it justice. As you approach the ferry dock you get a great view of the ruinds of MacDonald castle. It’s not recorded that Jamie and Claire visited the Isle of Skye, but this beautiful island seems to epitomize the romance of the highlands.

The scenery and beauty of the Island is fabulous. We made many stops to take in the view. The bright yellow gorse and many colours of rhododendrons dot the landscape.

Crossing the bridge back to the main land we stopped for an impressive view of Eilean Donan Castle. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and surrounded by some majestic scenery, it is little wonder that the castle is now one of the most visited and important attractions in the Scottish highlands. We enjoyed a guided tour of this restored castle which to this day is still used by the MacRae family.

We continued our drive through the highlands with a few more scenic photo stops, returning back to Fort William in time for dinner. Rumour has it there was a little bit of dancing going on last night. It was another magnificent day in Scotland!